The history of this tea goes back hundreds of years. In the city of Xian in central China one can see historical marker that is acknowledged to be the beginning of the Silk Road - the trail that lead to central Asia (areas such as the Caucuses and the Black Sea). One of the commodities taken along the Silk Road was tea. The tea that was carried on the camel trains left a lasting impression on central Asia - so much so that to supplement their importation of tea, tea was cultivated in the region.

During the Czar's time, tea was the most important drink after vodka. In fact, even today the tradition continues as Russia and the CIS are major consumers of tea in world terms. Their tastes have changed over the years, but light, bright, flavory teas are still in high demand in Russia. Quite often the tea is thrown into a pot and allowed to simmer and steep all day; (evidence of this custom can be seen in the Russian samovar - the ideal means of serving tea Russian style). This is one reason you need a light liquoring tea with flavor to be considered for Russian Caravan Tea. The Lapsang Souchong in the blend gives it a hint of mystery.